Airlines / Aviation
Air India will strengthen its practices to turn profitable: CEO Campbell Wilson
Air India aims to achieve profitability by enhancing operational efficiency, starting with refitting its narrowbody aircraft. The refurbishment of widebody planes will begin in 2025. The airline has reduced its net loss and increased revenue. With ongoing transformation projects, Air India seeks to elevate its service standards, investing $400 million in refurbishing 67 legacy aircraft.
DGCA suspends Akasa Air executives for pilot training lapse
DGCA has suspended Akasa Air's heads of operations and training due to the use of unapproved simulators for pilot training. This follows multiple regulatory actions against the airline, including fines and show-cause notices. Akasa Air faces challenges as it awaits new aircraft deliveries amidst production issues at Boeing.
DGCA orders suspension of 2 Akasa directors for lapses in pilots training
The two senior executives of the airline, in which the Rakesh Jhunjhunwala family holds stakes, have "failed" to ensure "compliances" with the civil aviation requirements, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said in its order of December 27.
Can Air India turn profitable after years of losses? CEO Wilson offers a 2025 roadmap
Air India CEO Campbell Wilson outlines plans for 2025, including aircraft refits and service elevation, to ensure profitability and efficiency. Tata Group's transformation strategy has seen key mergers and significant milestones, while recent orders for 100 more planes reflect the progress in optimizing fleet deployment.
Delhi Airport issues passenger advisory as fog engulfs city
Delhi Airport advised passengers to check flight statuses with airlines due to dense fog causing low visibility. The IMD had warned of dense fog on December 26, 27, and 28. Partly cloudy skies and light rain are expected. Many parts of Delhi will experience smog and moderate fog, especially in early mornings and nights.
IndiGo expects to carry 112 mn passengers in 2024: CEO Pieter Elbers
IndiGo anticipates carrying 112 million passengers in 2024, positioning itself as a global aviation leader. The airline, with a 63.6% domestic market share and over 400 aircraft, is expanding internationally. New A321 XLR and A350-900 widebody planes arriving next year will support direct, long-duration flights, aligning with India's aviation hub vision.
Delhi Airport, IndiGo issue travel advisory amid low visibility in national capital
Delhi Airport issues a passenger advisory due to expected fog affecting flight operations. Non-CAT III compliant flights may experience disruptions. Passengers should contact airlines for updates, and IndiGo recommends checking flight statuses before travel.
Runway set to be cleared for Airlines to use wet leased planes on new routes
India is allowing domestically operated carriers to use wet leased planes on new routes to alleviate an aircraft shortage, benefiting airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet. This policy aims to help airlines expand routes and manage capacity constraints, potentially reducing ticket prices.
Private companies' ATF sales up 63% so far this FY
Private jet fuel suppliers have significantly outpaced state-run companies in sales growth this fiscal year, achieving a 63% rise compared to the public sector’s 5.5%. Their market share has grown to nearly 12%, driven by aggressive marketing and expanded supply networks.
Indian airlines see 12% growth in November domestic traffic but challenges persist
Indian airlines transported 1.42 crore domestic passengers in November, a 12% increase compared to last year. IndiGo led with a 63.6% market share. Despite the growth, service delays and cancellations affected passengers, resulting in significant compensation. Air India's merger with Vistara added momentum.
Must Watch
Christmas celebrations at 35,000 feet: Air India offers holiday-themed offerings for passengers
Air India is celebrating Christmas with special meals, decorations, and entertainment on select flights. First and Business class passengers will enjoy stuffed turkey roulade and Christmas pudding. Premium Economy and Economy passengers will receive Christmas cake. Select aircraft have Christmas wreaths and carols playing. Children at Delhi and Mumbai airports will receive special engagement kits.
Nitin Gadkari issues stern warning, says officers will face suspension if Nagpur airstrip recarpeting not completed in a month
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari issued a warning, threatening suspension of authorities if the delayed recarpeting of Nagpur airport runway is not completed within a month. Originally set for earlier completion, the project has seen multiple delays causing passenger inconvenience, attributed to contractor and AAI negligence and election schedule adjustments.
Adani Group expands aviation reach with ₹400 crore acquisition of Air Works Group
Adani Defence Systems & Technologies Ltd bought a majority stake in Air Works. The deal is worth ₹400 crore. Air Works is India's top private aircraft maintenance company. It services many Indian and international airlines. Adani Group now operates seven airports and a major MRO. This strengthens Adani's position in the Indian aviation sector.
IndiGo announces special fares in limited-time sale
IndiGo announces a Getaway Sale. Book domestic flights from Rs 1,199. International flights start at Rs 4,499. Travel between January 23 and April 30, 2025. Sale ends December 25, 2024. Save up to 15% on add-ons like baggage and seats. Federal Bank credit card users get extra discounts. Book now on the IndiGo website.
More planes, flights, airports to brighten Indian aviation in 2025; supply chain shadows remain
Indian aviation is set for a transformative year. Mega-mergers and expanding fleets will dominate. New airports will open. Supply chain woes and pilot fatigue remain concerns. Air India's merger with Vistara creates a giant. The airline also placed massive aircraft orders. IndiGo expands its international presence. Two new airports will ease congestion. The sector faces a long journey ahead.
Surat-Bangkok flight runs out of liquor: When you're 30,000 feet up in the clouds, the rules stay grounded
The first Air India Express flight from Surat to Bangkok had very high alcohol sales. Passengers, flying from dry Gujarat, enjoyed the onboard bar. Social media buzzed about the drinks running out. The airline stated the stock was not depleted, just popular. The flight carried 175 passengers to Bangkok, the airline's 50th destination.
